Teen boys all seem to want a ‘broccoli’ haircut. What is it?
A stock image shows an example of the so-called “broccoli haircut.” (Getty Images)
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(NEXSTAR) – You may not have heard of the “broccoli” cut, but if you’ve spent any time around teenagers lately, you’ve definitely seen it.
The haircut, so named for its closely shaved sides and its curly abundance up top, is in high demand for Gen Z. It goes by a few other (equally ridiculous) name, including the “bird’s nest,” the “Zoomer perm,” and even “alpaca teen gym bro hair.”
“It’s achieved by cutting the hair in short, uneven layers that resemble the florets of a broccoli. The side can be completely buzz-cut short or shaved very close to the scalp (like a fade),” hairstylist Rene Fris explained in an interview with PopSugar.
The look – not to be confused with the “Edgar” cut – is easier to achieve for those with curly hair, but those with straight hair can pull it off with a little help. Teen boys as young as 13 are increasingly seeking out perms to get the broccoli cut, the New York Post reported.
VIDEO: A barber explains another hair trend, the “Edgar”
But as my Gen Z cousin told me, it’s not just a haircut, it’s a personality. They’re associated with “F-boys” and high schoolers who invade the gym after class – but they’re there to socialize or be seen more than they are to actually exercise.
“It’s such a specific person who rocks it: the guy who’s chugging a Celsius while taking multiple selfies in the gym mirror,” comedian Bryan Torresdey told GQ. His TikTok video making fun of the hairstyle has more than 65,000 likes.
How did the haircut get so popular? GQ credits TikToker and soccer player Noah Beck, YouTuber Jack Doherty, and boxer/influencer Bryce Hall for spreading its popularity.
“All the guys coming up on TikTok, every guy who went viral and was considered highly attractive had this fluffy hair look. So it was kind of like, if you didn’t have that, you’re missing out,” social media personality (and broccoli hair adoptee) Dillon Latham told the magazine.
You’ll soon see the broccoli cut on a much larger screen; Clark Kent sports the look in the upcoming “Superman” movie, set to be released in 2025.
